Fondue with Swiss Cheese and Garlic

Name: Fondue with Swiss Cheese and Garlic
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g Gruyère cheese, grated; 200g Emmental cheese, grated; 1 clove garlic, halved; 300ml dry white wine; 2 tsp cornstarch; 1 tbsp lemon juice; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; Nutmeg, to taste; French bread, cut into cubes; Fresh vegetables (like broccoli, carrots), for dipping

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love hosting gatherings where food brings people together, and this Fondue with Swiss Cheese and Garlic is always the star of the show. Perfect for a chilly evening, this dish is creamy, savory, and simply irresistible. The combination of rich Swiss cheese and aromatic garlic creates an enticing flavor that keeps everyone coming back for more. Plus, it’s such a fun and interactive way to enjoy dinner with friends and family, making it an ideal recipe for celebrations or casual get-togethers.

Created by

Lucy Bennett

Last updated on 2026-01-13T18:01:13.758Z

Making this fondue was a delightful experience! I experimented with different Swiss cheeses and found that a mix of Gruyère and Emmental creates the perfect blend. The key is to melt the cheeses slowly over low heat and stir continuously to achieve that wonderfully smooth texture. I also added a hint of white wine, which elevates the flavor and helps with the melting process.

One of my favorite moments is watching friends dip fresh bread into the bubbling cheese pot and savoring each bite. I like serving it with sliced vegetables and apples for an added crunch and burst of flavor. Trust me, you'll enjoy every minute, and it's a memory that will linger long after the meal.

        Why You Will Love This Fondue
        Creamy, luscious texture that envelops every bite
The irresistible aroma of garlic enhances the flavor
An interactive dining experience that sparks joy and laughter

      

The Cheese Selection

Choosing the right cheese is crucial for an authentic fondue experience. Gruyère and Emmental are classic choices for fondue due to their meltability and flavor profile. The Gruyère offers a slightly nutty taste, while Emmental adds a creaminess that enhances the overall texture. If you're feeling adventurous, consider adding a splash of raclette cheese for an even deeper flavor or a semi-soft cheese like Fontina for a different spin. Just ensure that any substitutes maintain a good melting quality.

Grating your cheese freshly provides a significant advantage in achieving a smooth fondue. Pre-packaged shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can inhibit proper melting, leading to a gritty or lumpy fondue. To prevent this, use a box grater or a food processor to ensure your cheese is finely grated, allowing it to melt uniformly when introduced to the heated wine.

Perfecting Your Fondue Technique

Temperature control is key to a successful fondue. Start by heating the dry white wine slowly over medium heat until it's warm but not boiling—this prevents the wine's alcohol from evaporating, which is vital for balancing the flavors. Once the cheese is added, continue to stir gently but consistently to ensure that it melts evenly, avoiding any clumping. You want a glossy and smooth consistency without any stringiness or lumps.

Using a fondue pot with a proper heat source is essential. If you use a traditional ceramic pot, be cautious with the flame; high heat can scorch the cheese. A better option is to use an electric fondue pot, which allows you to maintain a steady low heat. If you notice any signs of separation or a grainy texture, simply add a splash more wine and stir vigorously over low heat until it reaches a desirable consistency again.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients for the fondue.

Fondue Ingredients

200g Gruyère cheese, grated
200g Emmental cheese, grated
1 clove garlic, halved
300ml dry white wine
2 tsp cornstarch
1 tbsp lemon juice
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Nutmeg, to taste
French bread, cut into cubes
Fresh vegetables (like broccoli, carrots), for dipping

Ensure everything is prepped and ready for a fun fondue experience!

Instructions

Let’s get started with preparing the fondue.

Prepare the Pot

Rub the inside of a fondue pot with the halved garlic clove, then discard the garlic.

Mix the Cheese

In a bowl, mix the grated cheeses with cornstarch and set aside.

Heat the Wine

Pour the white wine and lemon juice into the pot, and heat over medium heat until warm but not boiling.

Melt the Cheese

Gradually add the cheese mixture by handfuls, stirring continuously until melted and smooth.

Season the Fondue

Add freshly ground black pepper and a pinch of nutmeg to taste.

Serve and Enjoy

Keep the fondue warm over a low flame and serve with bread and vegetables for dipping.

Enjoy your delicious fondue with friends or family!

Pro Tips

For a more robust flavor, experiment with adding a splash of Kirsch (cherry brandy) or a bit of mustard to the cheese mixture.

Serve and Store Leftovers

When it comes to serving fondue, presentation adds a fun touch. Arrange fresh bread cubes and colorful vegetables like blanched broccoli, carrots, or even bell peppers beautifully around the pot. Providing different dipping options can create a fun experience as guests combine flavors—consider incorporating small bowls of pickles or cured meats for additional contrasting tastes. If you find any leftovers, which is rare, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days.

To reheat leftover fondue, gently warm it in a pot on the stove over low heat, adding a touch more white wine or a splash of milk to revitalize its consistency. Stir continuously until it reaches a smooth texture again. This way, you can enjoy your fondue once more without sacrificing quality or texture.

Customizing Your Fondue

Fondue is incredibly versatile! For a twist, try adding herbs such as thyme or rosemary during the melting process for a fragrant infusion that complements the cheese. If you're looking to experiment with flavors, consider mixing in a bit of truffle oil or a splash of dark beer, which can add a unique depth to the cheese blend. Just be cautious with quantities, as these flavors can easily overpower the delicate cheese.

For a lighter variation, you can substitute half of the Gruyère and Emmental with a low-fat cheese like part-skim mozzarella or even a vegan cheese alternative. Keep in mind that the texture may not be as creamy, so adjust the cornstarch slightly to maintain thickness. Being creative with cheeses can lead to delightful new fondue experiences, perfect for impressing guests at your next gathering!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, feel free to mix different types of cheese, but make sure to include some Swiss cheese for the classic taste.

→ What can I use for dipping besides bread?

Vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or even apple slices work wonderfully for dipping.

→ How do I store leftover fondue?

Store it covered in the fridge and reheat gently over low heat before serving again.

→ Is fondue suitable for a vegetarian diet?

Yes, as long as you use vegetarian-friendly cheese and wine.